Comprehensive Senior Evaluations
It’s thought the best part of being a veterinarian is seeing puppies and kittens. While it is a highlight of our days, our senior patients always have a special place in our hearts!
At Caring Animal Hospital, we recommend seeing your senior cats and dogs twice per year not only for the snuggles, but to ensure their ongoing health and comfort.
The What
Our Comprehensive Senior Evaluation happens annually as a drop-off appointment. During this time, we conduct thorough diagnostics, some under sedation that aren't possible during a regular exam. At a substantially discounted rate, we perform a comprehensive nose-to-tail exam, comprehensive bloodwork and urine testing, X-rays, blood pressures, cancer screening, ultrasound, and additional testing. We schedule a 1-hour appointment the following week for thorough discussion with detailed recommendations.
The Why
Senior dogs are prone to having a silent decline until their pain is too much to hide. Reduced activity, increased thirst, change in appetite and weight, confusion, hesitation for stairs, increased panting, and scuffing their back toes are all subtle indicators for metabolic disease, arthritis, cognitive changes, spinal cord disorders, and heart or lung changes.
Senior cats are prone to silent and subtle changes such as decreased grooming, hesitancy to jump, change in appetite, inconsistent vomiting, and minor weight loss. All of which can be indicators of kidney disease, hyperthyroidism, gastrointestinal disease, dental pain, and/or arthritis.
Yearly Comprehensive Senior Exams will help us find health concerns earlier in life. Findings will vary between pets, but with more information we can tailor your pet’s treatment plan accordingly. This plan may consist of medications, bloodwork monitoring, supplements, procedures, diet changes, laser, acupuncture, and at home physical therapy – all of which will keep your pets happy and healthy for many more years to come!
The Benefits
- Improved Quality of Life: Early pain management enhances mobility and behavior.
- Financial Savings: Preventing disease is often less expensive than emergency treatment.
- Customized Care Plans: We always adapt care to your pet’s specific age, breed, and health profile.
- Strengthened Human-Animal Bond: Regular visits help pet owners stay informed and confident in managing age-related needs.
There are so many ways we can improve your senior pet’s life through early detection. Please call us at (517) 694-6766 to discuss and set up your Extensive Senior Examinations today!
